The Challenge:

On 28th June 2026, I will once again be stepping out on the Shanklin coastal path to lead the 'Blindfolded Bimble' – walking loops of a 7km route with friends and family who will be taking it in turns to wear blindfolds and guide each other.

As a proud veteran myself (I served with 2PWRR, the Infantry regiment for the South) the timing of the challenge is very significant. The walk takes place during Blind Veterans UK’s Armed Forces Month and the weekend of National Armed Forces Day.

As with our previous Blindfolded Bimbles, this challenge is an opportunity to come together to celebrate the efforts of our forces and thank them for their sacrifices - and those of their families - as well as raise vital awareness and funds for Blind Veterans UK.

This year’s Blindfolded Bimble will have an added element of challenge for its participants – making it a really ‘blind-ing’ experience (pardon the pun).

Instead of the return leg of our walk seeing us head back along the prom as we have in previous years, we will be returning to our starting point along the main road ways, giving those taking part an opportunity to experience what it’s like for someone with sight loss to navigate un-even pathways, kerbs and unexpected obstacles surrounded by the movement, noise and unpredictability of everyday life in a busy town.

Why I’m supporting Blind Veterans UK:

For those who don’t know, Blind Veterans UK is a charity that supports veterans with sight loss, no matter when or how they have lost their sight. They provide practical advice, training, equipment and – most importantly – the belief that you can lead an independent and fulfilling life after sight loss.

Sight loss had a huge impact on my life. Everyday activities like taking a walk, preparing a meal or spending time socialising with friends or playing with my daughters became difficult or impossible.

Discovering Blind Veterans UK helped change that.

With the support of their trained Rehabilitation Officers I learned to use a cane to walk safely (safely for me!). They provided equipment like a talking microwave to help me prepare food. They enabled me to meet and spend time with other blind veterans which boosted my confidence.

The challenge of sight loss is ongoing. Blind Veterans UK have been there to help me overcome any new barriers sight loss sets for me and reassuringly, will be there for my life time.

How you can help:

I want to help ensure other blind veterans can receive life changing support for years to come and you can help me do that in the following ways;

- Make a donation via my page – all funds go directly to the charity.

- Share my story by sharing this JustGiving page on your social media channels.

- Want to organise your own ‘Blindfolded Bimble’ walk or another activity closer to home during Armed Forces Month? Visit Blind Veterans UK's website.

- Join me! If you live on the Isle of Wight, come and walk with me* and get sponsored to raise your own funds. Contact fundraising@blindveterans.org.uk to request a sponsor form and other fundraising materials. We will be stepping off at 11am from Shanklin end of the coastal path – it would be great to ‘see’ as many of you there as possible so to speak!

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

*Disclaimer: Those choosing to walk with me are doing so at their own discretion and are responsible for their own health and safety. If you would like to walk wearing a blindfold, please ensure you bring your own partner to act as guide and your own blindfold.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.